The Great Greening: How Long Does Chicago's River Rock a Shamrock Shake Shade?
Ah, the Chicago River. Home to architectural wonders, bustling bridges, and...well, let's be honest, not exactly known for its crystal-clear waters. But every year, for a glorious fleeting moment, this urban waterway undergoes a magical transformation. It turns emerald green! Yes, you read that right. To celebrate St. Patrick's Day, Chicago dyes its river a festive shade, making it the undisputed envy of green rivers everywhere (yes, that's a very exclusive club).
But here's the burning question: how long does the party last? Because let's face it, nobody wants a week-long green river hangover.
From Week-Long Whoopsie to Eco-Friendly Ephemera
Back in the day, things were a bit wilder. In 1962, the plumbers (yes, you read that right, the PLUMBERS!) who started this whole tradition used a hefty 100 pounds of dye. The result? A river that stayed green for an entire week! Let's just say the eco-conscious folks weren't exactly thrilled.
Thankfully, times have changed. These days, the good folks of Chicago use a much more environmentally friendly dye, and in much smaller quantities. The trade-off? The vibrant green fades much faster, lasting only a couple of hours. Think of it as a quick green smoothie for the river, a refreshing St. Paddy's Day pick-me-up.
So You Want to See the Green River? Here's the Lowdown
If you're planning a trip to Chicago specifically to witness the emerald extravaganza, here's the deal:
- The dyeing usually happens early in the morning on St. Patrick's Day.
- The best viewing spots are along the riverwalk, especially near bridges like the Michigan Avenue Bridge or the Wabash Avenue Bridge.
- Don't blink! By afternoon, the river will be starting its slow return to its usual, well, Chicago River-y hue.
Pro Tip: If you miss the window, don't fret! There's always next year. And hey, the Chicago River has a certain undeniable charm, green or not. Just maybe pack some hand sanitizer for after – you know, just in case.
